Sicily: Monreale Cloister, Palermo
Days 6, 7 & 8 Three whole days sightseeing in and around Palermo. The Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel - the latter a glory of Arab craftsmanship under their Norman rulers. The cathedral with the tombs of the rulers of Sicily. The cloister of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Piazza Pretoria and its colossal XVI century fountain. Norman churches of La Martorana and San Cataldo. The oratory churches. The cathedral of Monreale (some 5 miles outside Palermo) and its wonderful cloister; lunch in a local restaurant. Another trip outside Palermo to the aristocratic resort of Bagheria to visit the Villa Palagonia. Dine one evening with the Principessa Raffadali at the Palazzo Raffadali, another with Princess Alliata at the Palazzo Alliata, and perhaps drinks another day at the Palazzo Aiutamicristo.
Day 9 Set off to Taormina via Catania. On the way visit Regaleali, Contessa Anna Tasca DAlmeritas estate and famous vineyard and stay for lunch. Then tea or drinks at Biscari. Afterwards, a quick look at the sights of Catanias old town, then on to Taormina to the San Domenico Palace for the night.
Day 10 Morning visit the Greco-Roman theatre. Afternoon free time to explore the delightful and sophisticated town of Taormina where the last night will be spend, again at the San Domenico Palace.
Day 11 Depart for Catania Airport for return flights to USA or London via Rome.
Price on application by Travel Agent or Tour Operator
A Tour of Tuscany and Florence A Tour of Sicily At Home at the Villa Michaela Tour leader's biographies
Tour leader's biographies